While at USC, Swann played on two Rose Bowl teams, including the 1972 National Championship team. In 1973, his senior year, Swann was not only Team Captain, MVP, and selected as an All-American, he was also drafted in the first round by the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The #1 draft pick of the Steelers and 21st overall pick in 1974, Lynn returned 41 punts his first year for a near-record 577 yards, a 14.1-yard average and a touchdown against the Oakland Raiders in the AFC Championship! His gazelle-like speed, fluid movements and leaping ability soon won him the wide-receiver position for the 1975 season, during which he recorded 49 catches for 781 yards, a league-high 11 touchdowns, finishing with a 64-yard catch and run that produced the winning touchdown over the Dallas Cowboys in the 21-17 victory in Super-Bowl X! Swann held the Super-Bowl record that year, running 161 yards in 4 receptions.
Swann concluded his playing career after the 1982 season. His lifetime chart showed 336 receptions for 5,462 yards and 51 touchdowns. His 364 receiving yards in only 4 games ranked first in Super-Bowl history at the time of his retirement. He was named All-Pro in 1975, 1977, and 1978 and was voted to the Pro Bowl after each of those seasons.
While still with the Steelers, Swann began his broadcasting career in 1976. In 1983, upon his retirement, Swann joined the broadcasters at ABC Sports full-time. He continues his work with ABC Sports and looks forward to many more seasons of sports commentary.
Pittsburgh has been home to Swann and his family since he joined the Steelers in 1974. Today he remains as active off the field as he was on it. Recognized for his many achievements, Swann has received numerous honors for his work toward the continued growth and development of our nation’s young people. He has served on many boards of directors including the National Board of Directors for Big Brothers and Big Sisters of America, on which he has served since 1980. He served as their President from 1993-1995 and continues as their National Spokesperson today.
On August 4, 2001 Lynn Swann, Pittsburgh Steeler #88, was enshrined into the Football Hall of Fame in Canton, OH. Among his many supporters, friends and fans are his wife and their two boys.
In June 2002, Lynn was selected by President Bush to be the Chairman of the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports. Lynn has begun traveling the country and encouraging communities to take the President's challenge.
50% of the proceeds from the website-sales of Swann’s Hall of Fame Memorabilia will go to Big Brothers and Big Sisters of America and the Pittsburgh Ballet Theater.
